Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 June 2018
139. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of businesses that have availed of the Be Prepared grant to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25985/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, through its agency Enterprise Ireland, supports companies in urban and rural areas to start, innovate and remain competitive in international markets, now and into the future. On an annual basis Enterprise Ireland works with approximately 5,000 companies through a network of market and sector advisers based across 10 national offices and 33 international offices. These manufacturing and internationally traded services companies are a critical source of existing employment and job creation in every county in Ireland.
To date 110 companies have availed of the Brexit Be Prepared Grant. Enterprise Ireland’s Be Prepared Grant offers SMEs a grant of up to €5,000 to assist them in preparing an action plan for economic shocks, such as Brexit. The grant can be used to help cover consultancy, travel and travel expenses associated with researching the direction of their action plan. Enterprise Ireland is committed to processing all applications for the grant within eighteen days.
For example, this might involve investigating the feasibility of diversifying into new markets and market segments; investment in innovation; improvement in operational competitiveness; and/or enhancement of strategic financial capability.
Enterprise Ireland will continue to promote the Be Prepared Grant to all counties and regions to ensure that the maximum number of clients are engaged in preparing for the impact of Brexit.
